Guaranteed Chimney of Westchester performs a wide array of chimney services for homeowners in the Westchester area, including masonry and mortar repair. The interior of any chimney requires annual cleanings to prevent toxic fumes from entering your home. And keeping the brickwork of your chimney is necessary and incredibly important for the proper functioning of the fireplace. Your chimney structure must be strong and intact to prevent any damage to the inside or outside of your home. And for the fireplace to run properly.
Professional Chimney Masonry Repair
When it comes to professional chimney masonry repair, tuckpointing is the name of the repair procedure to fix it. And there are signs of possible damage you can look out for. The first step is to detect any cracks in the stone and the mortar of the chimney. Then to repair them before they become more significant.
The chimney crown is another aspect of a chimney that is prone to cracking over time. The crown of a chimney is the cement layer that covers most of the flue opening at the top of the chimney. When there are cracks, moisture is allowed to infiltrate the cement. And once water gets into the cracks, it will freeze and expand over time. Which causes the damage.
When we repair the crown, we do so with a sealant coating. However, the crown may be too damaged for a simple waterproof sealant. It may need a partial or complete rebuild to protect the structure of the chimney. We advise replacing the crown every 20 years or so. That way you stay ahead of any significant damage or problems. The team at Guaranteed Home Improvement provides affordable chimney masonry repair for homeowners throughout Westchester County, New York. We look forward to helping you with your chimney issues!
The Most Common Masonry Chimney Repairs
A problematic chimney happens due to a few different reasons. The most common repair aspects when it comes to the masonry of your chimney are:
- cracks
- liners
- crown cracks and failures
- water damage
- poor chimney design
Our Westchester chimney repair team has experience handling all of these issues when it comes to your chimney. Learn more about these issues below.
Repair Chimney Masonry Cracks
The purpose of every chimney is to properly vent the smoke from your home. However, if there is a crack within the masonry, then the chimney is compromised. If smoke and combustion materials are not vented away from your home, they can build up in those cracks. Thus causing a hazardous environment. Cracks are the most common issue people have with their chimney. With that said, that does not mean these issues should be overlooked. Take care of them as soon as you notice it.
Chimney Crown Problems
One of the most common areas for one to find a crack is within the chimney crown. The chimney crown is the very top of the chimney itself. If you notice a crack, or that the crown is lopsided or falling apart, then it is time to fix it. When the chimney crown is in a dilapidated condition, then you are more prone to a possible chimney fire. And it is better to do this sooner than later. Not only due to the dangerous conditions. But also because the crown is tougher and longer to repair the longer you take to fixing.
Chimney Liner Issues
Next we come to the chimney liner, which also plays a factor when you need masonry repair work done. The chimney liner is a crucial part of the chimney system. Depending on your chimney, liner damage repairs varies. The repair work can alter from centering and proper insulation to a smoother, more refinished liner. When the liner is smooth, the chimney functions better.
Chimney Liners Should Offer:
- Maximum protection for the chimney.
- Increased performance of the fireplace and/or appliance.
- Maximum protection in the smoke chamber.
- Suitable for all fuel types.
- Strengthens the structural integrity.
Water Damage
Water infiltrating the liner and the chimney is bad news. When water mixes with the creosote, it becomes more acidic. This then causes rusting, which speeds up the deterioration of the brick and mortar in the chimney and the fireplace. Thus, your chimney will need masonry repair much sooner than anticipated. There are solutions to these issues, like waterproofing the liner, using water sealants, and repair the flashing. But they only stop any further damage. If the water has been causing issues, then we may need to opt to fix the masonry aspects, too. Which leads us to say, be careful from the elements. Bad weather is a quick way to need repair work.
Faulty Chimney Design
Lastly we come to just a faulty and bad design for a chimney. This happens. An improperly designed chimney causes anything from a funky looking chimney to some more extreme issues, like being a fire hazard. All of the aspects of a chimney need to be designed properly and work together. Otherwise, you run the risk of starting a fire that burns down your home.
When you are looking for faulty designs, it may be difficult for the laymen to find them. Here are some common signs that may point to a bad design:
- chimney is lopsided
- rapid deterioration
- black smoke
- chimney cracks
If you see any of these issues, then please do not hesitate to reach out to your chimney professionals today! Our Westchester chimney team offers excellent chimney masonry repair and any other needed chimney services.
Call For A Free Estimate for Mortar Repair
The advantages of using masonry for structures on your property are plentiful. The bricks used will not burn in a fire, they do not attract insect pests such as termites, they remain strong in all kinds of weather and work well for insulation in a home. Because there is no tress involved, masonry is also environmentally friendly. Guaranteed Chimney of Westchester also performs quality mortar repairs for your chimney.
For more information about of chimney services, please reach out to us today. We will gladly answer any questions or concerns you have about your chimney. As well as discuss a plan forward for the masonry repair or mortar repair needed for your chimney. Get full and safe use from your fireplace by ensuring that all aspects are working properly. The number to call to speak to someone from our office is 866-528-1324. When you call, we can provide you with a free consultation and estimate. We look forward to helping you with any chimney problems you may be experiencing.